Other ABC News Sites

ACCC said to be investigating egg price collusion

Free range egg growers are concerned about the influence that major egg producers have on the Australian market.

Dixidito: www.sxc.hu

Free range egg farmers believe the Australian Competition and Consumer Commission is acting on their concerns about egg prices.

Phil Westwood, from the Free Range Egg and Poultry Association of Australia, says it's been lobbying the ACCC to investigate reports of market manipulation.

He's concerned that the major egg companies have too much influence on prices.

"Well, as we understand it, we haven't heard officially from the ACCC, but we understand they are actually investigating whether or not there's been collusion and actions designed to bolster the price of eggs, rather than let the market forces determine the price." he said.

The ACCC would not confirm or deny that it is undertaking such an investigation.